Wynand Havenga dead aged 59: Tributes pour in for popular darts star who made last 16 at World Championships
DARTS star Wynand Havenga has died aged 59, the PDC have confirmed.
Havenga made history in 2007 as the first South African player to compete in the PDC World Darts Championship.
The cause of his death on January 10 is unknown.
Havenga was born in Cape Town in 1965 and took up darts professionally in his early 20s.
But it was not until 2006 that he came into the sport’s public eye when he saw off 100 others to be crowned South African Masters champion.
Havenga’s victory at his home tournament saw him given a chance to perform on the global stage at the World Championships in 2007.
He came through qualifying and stunned No26 seed Steve Maish in round one.
Havenga went onto beat former finalist Peter Manley to reach the last 16 at the former Circus Tavern venue in Purfleet, Essex.
He eventually fell to Darren Webster, despite boasting a better average than the Englishman.
In their statement paying tribute, the PDC wrote: “We are saddened to learn that Wynand Havenga has passed away.
“Our thoughts and condolences go to his family and friends.”
He also competed in the Australian Open Players Championship and South African Masters event.
The latter saw him lose to James Wade in Johannesburg.
After leaving the sport due to a shoulder injury, he later became manager of a motorcycle shop.
Fellow South African darts poster boy Devon Petersen was among the first to pay tribute to Havenga.
Petersen wrote on X: “You made us all believe when you graced the PDC stage as the first South African to play and win.
“The impact you had on the sport in South Africa was tremendous. A true legend of the sport and one of Africa‘s best dart players.
“Your candle has burnt out long before your legend ever will.”
Graham Filby, who competed at the World Cup of Darts three times, also took time to honour Havenga.
Filby wrote: “Another legend in the sports of darts has left us. Wynand, you taught so many of us so much about our sport.
“I will for always be thankful for the time you took out of your schedule to help others.”
Fans also took to social media to pay tribute to Havenga.
One tweeted: “Extremely sad news, gone way too soon.”
While a second wrote: “Terrible news. What a player he was. RIP Springbok.”
Another commented: “He did so much for South African darts.”
Havenga became a popular figure during the World Championship.
His magical run had captured many fans’ hearts – thanks in part to his unique and enthusiastic celebration style.
That even prompted his very own supporters club – dubbed the Havenga Boys.
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